Phasing of lights at M3 Junction 9

The contractor's hope that this announcement will explain the current traffic light phasing at junction 9, particularly in relation to Easton Lane, Spitfire Link, and access to the Winnall area.

The contractors appreciate that the present situation is frustrating for drivers, residents and local businesses, and they recognise the knock‑on effects being felt within Winchester.

Before the scheme began, the gyratory was already operating at around 130–150% of its intended capacity. To enable the construction of key long-term beneficial elements of the junction 9 improvement works, temporary traffic management has been introduced, including a reduction in the number of available lanes. As a result, the junction is currently operating well over its design capacity, which significantly limits how traffic can be managed through signal timings.

The current traffic light phasing has been set following detailed assessment by the traffic management team and is based on a clear order of priorities:

• First priority: the M3 slip roads
  It is critical that traffic does not queue back onto the M3 main carriageway. Queuing on the motorway presents a serious safety risk and could lead to wider network disruption should there be an incident as a result.
• Second priority: the A34
  The A34 must be kept moving to avoid queues forming close to the limits of the free recovery zone and the temporary CCTV coverage area. If congestion were to extend beyond this zone and an incident occurred, there would be limited visibility and reduced ability to respond quickly.
• Final priority: Easton Lane
  While the contracotrs recognise the local impact, Easton Lane currently has the least flexibility within the constrained junction layout. Increasing green time here would directly reduce capacity on either the M3 slip roads or the A34, which would increase the risk of motorway queuing or wider congestion and heightened safety risks.

The contractors understand the concern about short green phases, particularly where only a small number of vehicles can pass during each cycle. However, extending the Easton Lane green time to the levels suggested would have a detrimental impact elsewhere on the network and could worsen overall congestion and safety outcomes.

The traffic management team continues to monitor conditions closely, including during weekends and peak periods. Where it is possible to make small, safe adjustments within the existing constraints, these are considered. However, any changes must not compromise the safe operation of the M3 or the A34.

In terms of how long the current situation will continue, the reduced capacity and associated signal phasing are linked to the construction stages of the junction 9 scheme. As works progress and temporary restrictions are removed, there will be opportunities to review and adjust signal operation. At this stage, it is not possible to give a precise date for when Easton Lane green times could return to something closer to pre‑works conditions, but this will not be immediate and will depend on construction milestones being reached.

Volker Fitzpatrick appreciate the patience being shown by residents and businesses during this period of disruption. They will continue to balance local impacts with the need to keep the strategic road network operating safely.